The Missouri Tigers won a thrilling opener in St. Louis Saturday over the Illinois Fighting Illini. Among the nearly 63,000 in attendance was Cahokia (IL) TE London Davis, who said he was happy he made the trip into the city.

"It was great to be there," said Davis. "The Dome was the loudest place I've ever heard. I had a fantastic time and I was really excited when Missouri won."

The game did not lack excitement either. Davis said that it was a whole lot more fun to see in person when he was on the edge of his seat. He added that he already can't wait for next year.

"I couldn't believe Illinois came back, it came down to the wire," said Davis. "I was real hyped after the game. I can't wait to play in it next year."

Going into the game, Davis was looking to see what Missouri TE's Martin Rucker and Chase Coffman did. He said he left impressed with the way both players had played. He also said that he understood why Rucker was one of the leaders of the team.

"Man, they're something else," said Davis. "Chase made some big time plays. I couldn't believe he got that fumble back too. Rucker's mohawk was wild. He's got a lot of school spirit and he wasn't afraid to show it. I like that. I would probably show it a different way, but it's cool to see someone taking pride in what they do."

Davis said the game probably should not have been as close as it was, but added he was never worried. He went on to say it was less about what Missouri wasn't doing, and more about what the Illini were able to do.

"I wasn't ever too nervous about the game," said Davis. "I knew they were going to win. I know a few people said Missouri was struggling, but I think in the second half, it was just about Illinois making plays to get back into it. Missouri made the plays when it needed to to win."

Before his late summer visit to Missouri, one of the schools Davis was heavily considering in recruiting was Illinois. After seeing the two teams up close, was Davis still happy with his decision?

"Oh yeah, I wouldn't change where I picked at all," said Davis. "Even if they would have lost, I would still stay with Mizzou. I wouldn't let one game change my mind. Missouri's my final choice and I'm already excited about being on the field next year for the game."